Abstract
Devices and systems compare incoming and outgoing gas and fluid flowrate measurements with each other and with additional physiological measurements of a patient to trigger an alarm to healthcare providers of an issue with a patient. The device can include a sensor that measures incoming flow of gas and fluid and a sensor for measuring the outgoing flow of gas and fluid (for example, urine) from the patient. The sensors can be connected to wireless transmitters to send data describing the flow to a computer processor. The computer processor receives the data from the processors and generates an alarm based on comparisons between the input flow and the output flow. The devices and system can be used to detect issues in a patient by monitoring a flow of intravenous fluids being administered to an amount of urine being generated. The devices and system can be used to detect issues in a patient by comparing a flow of gas being administered to a patient compared to blood gas content in the patient.
Claims
1. A device for monitoring fluid or gas being input to or output from a patient, comprising: a fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter generating a signal, the signal being a function of a flowrate of the fluid or gas through said fluid flow sensor; a digital computer being connected to and receiving the signal from said fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter, said digital computer generating a wireless signal from the signal; and a wireless transmitter being connected to said digital computer, receiving the wireless signal from said digital computer, and transmitting the wireless signal.
2. The device according to claim 1, further comprising: an output of said fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter for relaying the signal from said fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter; an input of said digital computer for receiving the signal; and a lead interconnecting said output of said fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter and said input of said digital computer, said lead relaying the signal from said output of said fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter to said input of said digital computer.
3. The device according to claim 1, further comprising: a urine collection device for collecting urine from the patient; and said fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter being an output fluid flow sensor generating the signal based on a flowrate of the urine through said output fluid flow sensor; and an input of said output fluid flow sensor being connected to said urine collection device and receiving the urine from said urine collection device.
4. The device according to claim 1, further comprising: a fluid source for delivering fluid to a patient; said fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter being an input fluid flow sensor generating the signal based on a flowrate of the fluid through said input fluid flow sensor; an input of said input fluid flow sensor being connected to said fluid source and receiving the fluid from said fluid source; an output of said input flow sensor for outputting the fluid from said input flow sensor; and a fluid delivery device for delivering the fluid to the patient.
5. The device according to claim 1, further comprising: a gas source for delivering a volume of a gas to a patient; said fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter being an input mass flowmeter generating the signal based on a flowrate of the gas through said input mass flowmeter; an input of said input mass flowmeter being connected to said gas source and receiving the gas from said gas source; an output of said input mass flowmeter for outputting the gas from said input mass flowmeter; and an oxygen delivery device for delivering the gas to the patient being connected to said output.
6. The device according to claim 1, further comprising: an exhalation collection device for receiving a gas exhaled by the patient; said fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter being an output mass flowmeter generating the signal based on a flowrate of the gas through said output mass flowmeter; and an input of said output mass flowmeter being connected to said mask and receiving the gas from said exhalation collection device.
7. A system for measuring and monitoring fluid or gas input or output, comprising: the device according to claim 1; a server receiving the signal transmitted from said wireless transmitter and storing the signal; and a computer being connected to said server and reading the signal from said server, said computer deriving data from the signal and generating an alarm when the data exceeds a parameter, and transmitting the alarm to a user.
8. The system according to claim 7, further comprising: a sensor for measuring health data of the patient and generating a sensor signal, the sensor signal being a function of the health data over time, said sensor being connected to said digital computer; said wireless transmitter transmitting the sensor signal to said server; said server storing the health data received from said wireless transmitter; and said computer generating a further alarm based on the signal and the sensor signal, said computer transmitting the further alarm to the user.
9. The system according to claim 7, further comprising: a fluid or gas source supplying a fluid or gas to the patient; a regulator for adjusting a flow rate of the fluid or gas, said regulator being connected to said digital computer; said computer sending the alarm to said wireless transmitter of said digital computer; said digital computer sending a signal to said regulator after receiving the alarm; and said regulator adjusting the flow rate of the fluid or gas after receiving the signal from said digital computer.
10. The system according to claim 7, wherein: said fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter of said device is an input mass flowmeter, said input mass flowmeter generating the signal describing a flowrate of oxygen as a function of time; an oxygen source is connected to an input of said input mass flowmeter; an oxygen delivery device is connected to an output of said input mass flowmeter; an output mass flowmeter for measuring flowrate of exhalation sends a signal to said digital computer, the signal describing the flowrate of exhalation as a function of time; an input of said output mass flowmeter is connected to said oxygen delivery device; said digital computer transmitting the signal generated by said output mass flowmeter to said server; said server storing the signal generated by said output mass flowmeter; and said computer generating an alarm based on the signal generated by the input mass flowmeter and the output mass flowmeter and transmitting the alarm to the user.
11. The system according to claim 8, wherein: said fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter is a fluid output sensor generating the signal, the signal being a function of the flowrate of the fluid through said fluid output sensor; and said sensor is selected from the group consisting of a conductometer, a pH meter, a spectrophotometer.
12. The system according to claim 8, wherein: said fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter is an input mass flowmeter or an output mass flowmeter; and said sensor is selected from the group consisting of a transcutaneous blood oxygen sensor, an oxygen saturation sensor, carbon dioxide sensor, respiratory rate sensor, heart rate sensor, blood pressure sensor, a central venous pressure sensor, and a temperature probe.
13. The system according to claim 8, wherein: said fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter is an input mass flowmeter or an output mass flowmeter; and said sensor is a central venous pressure sensor, including: an ultrasound probe to be placed over a central blood vessel, said ultrasound probe measuring a deformation and wall motion of the central blood vessel, said ultrasound probe generating a signal that measures the deformation as a function of time, an inflatable bladder over said ultrasound probe, a strap for securing the ultrasound probe against skin of the patient overlying the blood vessel; and a lead connecting said ultrasound probe to said digital computer and carrying the signal from said ultrasound probe to said digital computer; and said digital computer transmits the signal from said digital computer to said server; and said computer generates the alarm based on the signal from said input mass flowmeter or said output mass flowmeter and from the signal from said ultrasound probe.
14. The device according to claim 3, wherein said urine collection device includes: a catheter for collecting the urine from the patient; and a cannula interconnecting said catheter and said input of said fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter.
15. The device according to claim 3, wherein said urine collection device includes: a collection hat for collecting the urine from the patient; and a cannula interconnecting said collection hat and said input of said fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter.
16. The device according to claim 3, wherein said urine collection device includes: a sheet for overlying a toilet bowl, said sheet having a drain formed therein; an iron disk being disposed on said sheet; a magnet to be disposed on the toilet bowl; and a cannula connecting said drain to said input of said fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter.
17. The device according to claim 3, wherein said urine collection device includes: a toilet seat with a slot formed therein; a tray being seated in said slot, said tray having a sheet for covering a toilet bowl, said sheet having a drain formed therein; and a cannula connecting said drain to said input of said fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter.
18. A method for measuring glomerular filtration rate, which comprises: injecting a renally secreted, not absorbed, spectrally-active agent into a bloodstream of a patient; measuring a flowrate of urine output by the patient; measuring an absorption of the agent in the urine; calculating a concentration of the agent as a function of time from the absorption; and correlating the flowrate as a function of time to the concentration of the agent.
19. The method according to claim 18, which further comprises measuring the flowrate of the urine output with an output fluid flow sensor.
20. The method according to claim 19, which further comprises: storing the concentration of the dye as a function of time in a server; storing the flowrate as a function of time in a server; calculating a glomerular filtration rate from the concentration of the dye as a function of time and the flowrate as a function of time with a computer connected to said server; and sending an alarm from said computer to a user when said computer detects the glomerular filtration rate falls below a preset minimum.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
[0164] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a first embodiment of a system according to the invention, the system including a wireless flowmeter device with an input fluid flow sensor for monitoring intravenous fluids being delivered to a patient.
[0165] FIG. 2A is a schematic view of a second embodiment of the system according to the invention, the system including a wireless flowmeter device with an indwelling catheter and an output fluid flow sensor for measuring urine output.
[0166] FIG. 2B is a diagrammatic, sectional, partial view of the second embodiment of the system of FIG. 2A being shown inserted in a female patient.
[0167] FIG. 2C is a diagrammatic, sectional partial view of the second embodiment of the system of FIG. 2A being shown inserted in a male patient.
[0168] FIG. 2D is a diagrammatic, sectional partial view of the second embodiment of the system of FIG. 2A being shown inserted in a female patient.
[0169] FIG. 3A is a schematic view of a third embodiment of the system according to the invention, the system including a wireless flowmeter device with an external catheter for males and an output fluid flow sensor.
[0170] FIG. 3B is a schematic view of a third embodiment of the system according to the invention, the system including a wireless flowmeter device with an external catheter for females and an output fluid flow sensor.
[0171] FIG. 3C is a diagrammatic view of the third embodiment for males shown in FIG. 3A.
[0172] FIG. 3D is a diagrammatic view of the third embodiment for females shown in FIG. 3B.
[0173] FIG. 4A is a partial sectional view of a fourth embodiment of the system according to the invention, the system including a wireless flowmeter device with an internal catheter for males and an output fluid flow sensor and with the internal catheter shown inserted in a penis of a patient.
[0174] FIG. 4B is a partial section view of the system shown in FIG. 4A with the catheter withdrawn from the penis of the patient.
[0175] FIG. 5A is a schematic view of a fifth embodiment of the system according to the invention, the system including a wireless flowmeter device with a urine collection hat and an output fluid flow sensor.
[0176] FIG. 5B is a schematic view of the fifth embodiment of the system, which is shown in FIG. 5A.
[0177] FIG. 6A is a diagrammatic top view of a toilet bowl sheet shown with the toilet bowl sheet fully deployed on a top surface of a toilet bowl rim.
[0178] FIG. 6B is a diagrammatic top view of a toilet bowl sheet shown with the toilet bowl sheet fully deployed on a top surface of a toilet bowl rim.
[0179] FIG. 6C is a diagrammatic top view of the toilet bowl shown in FIG. 6B with the toilet bowl sheet removed.
[0180] FIG. 6D is a diagrammatic top view of the toilet bowl sheet shown in FIG. 6A connected to a wireless device for measuring urine flow.
[0181] FIG. 6E is a diagrammatic top view of the toilet bow sheet shown in FIG. 6B connected to a wireless device for measuring urine flow.
[0182] FIG. 6F is a diagrammatic top view of a second embodiment of a toilet bowl sheet covering only a front portion of the toilet bowl.
[0183] FIG. 7A is a diagrammatic top view of a toilet bowl sheet with the toilet sheet fully deployed on a top surface of a toilet bowl rim with the seat lifted.
[0184] FIG. 7B is a front sectional view of the toilet bowl sheet shown in FIG. 7A while connected to a wireless device for measuring urine flow and with the toilet seat lowered.
[0185] FIG. 7C is a top view of the toilet bowl shown in FIG. 7A with the toilet sheet is folded back on a top surface of a toilet bowl rim with the seat lifted.
[0186] FIG. 7D is a front sectional view of the toilet bowl sheet shown in FIG. 7C while connected to a wireless device for measuring urine flow and with the toilet seat lowered.
[0187] FIG. 8A is a top view of a plate for collecting urine seated within a toilet seat.
[0188] FIG. 8B is a front section view of the plate shown in FIG. 8A.
[0189] FIG. 9 is a schematic partial view of a wireless flowmeter device according to the invention.
[0190] FIG. 10 is a schematic view of a closed loop system for regulating oxygen flow to a patient using a wireless flowmeter device with an input mass flowmeter and an output mass flowmeter.
[0191] FIG. 11 is a schematic view of an open loop system for analyzing urine including a wireless flowmeter device with an output fluid flow sensor.
[0192] FIG. 12 is a schematic view of a closed loop system for regulating oxygen flow to a patient using an input mass flowmeter, an output mass flowmeter, and additional sensors.
[0193] FIG. 13 is a schematic view of a wireless noninvasive combined central venous pressure meter and arterial pressure meter.
[0194] FIG. 14 is a diagrammatic view of a central blood vessel sensor used in the wireless noninvasive combined central venous pressure meter and arterial pressure meter shown in FIG. 13.
[0195] FIG. 15 is a schematic view of a closed loop system for analyzing gas input and gas output and fluid input and urine output of a patient.
[0196] FIG. 16 is a schematic view of an open loop system for regulating oxygen flow from a backup source to a patient.
[0197] FIG. 17A is a diagrammatic plan view of a winged infusion set with a spectrophotometer shown in an open position.
[0198] FIG. 17B is a diagrammatic plan view of the winged infusion set with the spectrophotometer shown in a closed position.
[0199] FIG. 17C is a diagrammatic perspective view of the spectrophotometer shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, in an open position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0200] FIG. 9 shows a preferred embodiment of a wireless flowmeter device 120. Input cannula 100 carries a liquid or gas to an input connector 102 of the fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter 10. Output cannula 101 connects to an outgoing connector 103 of the fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter 10 and carries liquid or gas from the fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter 10. The fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter 10 generates a signal that is a function of flow rate of liquid or gas through the fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter 10. A lead 6 is connected to an output 99 of the fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter 10. The lead 6 carries the signal from the fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter 10 to a digital computer, which is not shown in FIG. 9. The signal is encrypted by the digital computer into an encrypted signal. The digital computer encodes the encrypted signal according to a wireless protocol into a wireless signal. The digital computer includes a wireless transmitter that broadcasts the wireless signal. A wireless access point receives the wireless signal and decodes the wireless signal into the encrypted signal. The wireless access point is connected to a network. A server is connected to the network. The wireless access point transmits the encrypted signal to the server via the network. The lead 6 further carries electricity for powering the fluid flow sensor or mass flowmeter 10. For measuring a liquid flow rate, a preferred embodiment of the fluid flow sensor 10 is sold by SENSIRION under the trade name LD20. The fluid flow sensor 10 has a side port 110 for receiving liquid sterilizer. In an alternative embodiment without any side port, liquid sterilizer enters the fluid flow sensor 10 through the incoming connector 102. For measuring a gas flow rate, a preferred embodiment of the mass flowmeter 10 is sold by SENSIRION under the trade name SFM3300. A preferred embodiment of the digital computer 5 is sold by the RASPBERRY PI FOUNDATION under the trademark RASPBERRY PI. An alternate preferred embodiment of the digital computer is sold by ARDUINO SA under the trademark ARDUINO.
[0201] FIG. 15 shows a preferred embodiment of a wireless flowmeter device 120 for measuring fluid input flow rate, urine output flow rate, gas input flow rate, and gas output flow rate. The device 120 includes an input fluid flow sensor 10A, an output fluid flow sensor 10B, an input mass flowmeter 10C, and an output mass flowmeter 10D. The input fluid flow sensor 10A interconnects a fluid source 18 and a patient 1 and measures the flow rate as a function of time of fluid from the fluid source 18 to the patient 1 and generates a signal describing the flow rate as a function of time. A lead 6A carries the signal from the input fluid flow sensor 10A to a digital computer 5. The output fluid flow sensor 10B connects a urine collection device 3, which collects urine from the patient 1, and measures the flow rate as a function of time of urine from the patient 1 and generates a signal describing the flow rate as a function of time. A lead 6B carries the signal from the output fluid flow sensor 10B to the digital computer 5. The input mass flowmeter 10C interconnects a gas source 19 and a mask 79A and measures the flow rate as a function of time of gas from the gas source 19 and generates a signal describing the flow rate as a function of time. A lead 6C carries the signal from the input mass flowmeter 10C to the digital computer 5. The mask 79A further connects to the output mass flowmeter 10D and measures the flow rate as a function of time of gas from the patient 1 and generates a signal describing the flow rate as a function of time. A lead 6D carries the signal from the output mass flowmeter 10D to the digital computer 5. The digital computer 5 includes a wireless transmitter 13 for sending data from the digital computer 5. The digital computer 5 records the flow rate data from the fluid flow sensors 10A and 10B and mass flowmeters 10C and 10D along with time data. Preferably, the time data is a set of times listed in Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) that describes the moments when the flow rate is being recorded from each of the flow fluid flow sensors 10A and 10B and mass flowmeters 10C and 10D. The wireless flowmeter device 120 shown in FIG. 15 provides a closed loop analysis of fluids and gasses.
[0202] FIG. 1 shows a preferred embodiment of a system for measuring and monitoring the introduction of intravenous fluids into a patient. In this embodiment, a wireless flowmeter device 120 is inserted into a fluid line 9. The wireless flowmeter device 120 includes an input fluid flow sensor 10A that is inserted into the fluid line 9. Intravenous fluids are fed into the fluid line 9 from a fluid reservoir 1A and/or an injection port 1B. The fluid reservoir 1A and the injection port 1B are located upstream of the input fluid flow sensor 10A. A pump 3 harvests fluid from the fluid reservoir 1A and pushes the fluid into a vein 2 of the patient via the fluid line 9. It is possible to inject medication manually into the vein 2 via the injection port 1B and the fluid line 9. The pump 3 has flow control, a back-pressure alarm, a stop flow alarm, and an empty bag alarm, which are not illustrated in the drawing. These alarms are audible alarms. The input fluid flow sensor 10A has an input port 97 and output port 98 for connecting to the fluid line 9 downstream of the pump 3 and the injection port 1B. The input fluid flow sensor 10A is connected to a digital computer 5 by a lead 6. Data from the input fluid flow sensor 10A is encrypted by the digital computer 5 and sent via a wireless network 105 to the server 7 where the data is stored, analyzed, and again sent in the encrypted fashion to end users 8. The input fluid flow sensor 10A measures the flow rate of fluids passing through the input fluid flow sensor 10A, marks a start time of fluid administration, marks an end time of injections, and integrates the flow over time of administration to generate total fluid in. A computer programmed to analyze the flow rate of fluids being input into the patient is connected to the server 7, and detects when the input of fluids stop by analyzing the fluid-flow-rate data received from the input fluid flow sensor 10A, and transmits an alarm to users 8 via a network. A preferred embodiment of an end user is a healthcare provider. The user 8 receives the alarm via a network. So, the user 8 does not need to be present with the patient to receive the alarm.
[0203] As shown in FIGS. 2A-2D, 3A-3D, 4, 5A-5B, 6D-6E, 7B, 7D, A-7D, and 8A-8B, the wireless flowmeter device 120 can be attached to a variety of urine collection devices 3 (see FIG. 15). As shown in FIGS. 2A-2D, the output fluid flow sensor 10B connects to an indwelling catheter, both male (FIG. 2C) and female (FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2D). The output fluid flow sensor 10B records the flow rate of urine continuously as urine is collected from the bladder 2.
[0204] Additional embodiments of the wireless flowmeter device 120, which are not illustrated in the drawing, include an output fluid flow sensor connected to other drains. Examples of other drains include a JP drain, a thoracentesis, a paracentesis, cholecystostomy, wound vac as examples, not shown here), the automated real-time output if these bodily fluids can be recorded remotely.
[0205] FIGS. 2A-2D show a preferred embodiment of a wireless flowmeter device 120 for analyzing urine flow. The wireless flowmeter device 120 includes an output fluid flow sensor 10B. The output fluid flow sensor 10B has an incoming port 97. A connector 22 of the indwelling catheter 20 connects to the incoming port 97. The indwelling catheter 20 has a cannula 100, sterilization port 23, a balloon port 24, and a bladder insertion point 29. The sterilization port 23 is used for chemical sterilization. The sterilization port 23 allows this portion of the indwelling catheter 20 to be reusable in another patient or sterilized when exchanging between catheters in the same patient. The input port 97 is connected to an indwelling catheter 20, the output fluid flow sensor 10B generates a signal that is a function of urine flow rate through the output fluid flow sensor 10B to an output 99. A lead 6B connects the output 99 to a digital computer 5. The digital computer 5 calculates and records urine production as a function of time from the signal from the output fluid flow sensor 10B. A wireless network 105 (and possibly additional network segments) interconnect the digital computer 5 and a server 7. The server 7 stores the data from the digital computer 5. A computer connected to the server 7 calculates a volume of urine below a threshold over a specific time interval from the data stored in the server 7. The computer generates an alarm signal indicating urine retention to the users 8. As shown in FIG. 2B, the output fluid flow sensor 10B has an output port 98. An output connector 103 of an output cannula 101 connects to the output port 98. FIGS. 2B-2D show the bladder insertion point 29 of the indwelling catheter 20 inserted into a bladder 2 of the patient. Urine 3 held in the bladder 2 drains to the output fluid flow sensor 10B via the indwelling catheter 20. FIGS. 2C-2D show a variation of indwelling catheter 20 with a drainage port 104 and balloon port 24. The balloon port 24 is used to inflate balloon 106.
[0206] FIGS. 3A-3D show an embodiment of the invention including an external catheter device 30. The external catheter device 30 includes an output fluid flow sensor 10B. A lead 6 interconnects an output fluid flow sensor 10B and a digital computer 5. The digital computer 5 connects to a server 7 by a wireless connection 105. The server 7 send alarms and messages to users 8. FIGS. 3A and 3C show an embodiment with a condom 31. Urine drains from the condom 31 via an input cannula 100 to the output fluid flow sensor 10B. A sterilization port 23 is connected to the input cannula 100. The output fluid flow sensor 10B has an output port 98, An output cannula 101 interconnects the output port 98 and a urine collection pouch 108. Adhesive tape 107 attaches the input cannula 100 to the patient's leg. The embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A and 3C works with male anatomy and includes a male condom 31. The embodiment shown in FIGS. 3B and 3D works with female anatomy and includes a urinary pouch 39. The urinary pouch 39 includes an adhesive gasket 34. The urinary pouch 39 has an outlet 36 connected to the input cannula 101.
[0207] FIGS. 4A and 4B shows an embodiment with an indwelling catheter device inserted in a fossa navicularis 116. The indwelling catheter device has an input cannula 100 ending with a bulb 114 inserted in the fossa navicularis 116 of the urethra 112, which allows for good physical attachment, non-dependent on the size of the penis, overcoming common problem of detachment. The bulb 114 is preferably one to two centimeters long. The bulb is preferably made of plastic material such as silicone. In addition, a short and relatively loosely attached condom 31 overlies the glans 113. A distal tip 110 is open when inserted in the fossa navicularis 116, as shown in FIG. 4A. The opening preferably spans two to three millimeters. As shown in FIG. 4B, the distal tip 110 is closed before being inserted. The input cannula 100 is connected to an output fluid flow sensor 10B. The output fluid flow sensor 10B measures a flow rate of urine through the fluid flow sensor 10B.
[0208] In an embodiment that is not shown, very additional thin tubing can be inserted directly into the patient's bladder making it like indwelling Foley catheter but avoiding traumatic insertion and injury. This is particularly important in patient with prostate strictures and penile implants and otherwise pathologically narrowed urinary tract.
[0209] FIGS. 5A-5B show a system including a collection hat device 50 for measuring a flow rate of urine from a patient. The system includes a wireless flowmeter device 120. The collection hat device 50 includes a collection hat 51. A collection hat device 50 has an outlet 36 connected to an input cannula 100. The input cannula 100 is connected to an input port 97 of an output fluid flow sensor 10B. A patient urinates into the collection at device 50, which drains into the output fluid flow sensor 10B, which measure the flow rate of the urine. The output fluid flow sensor 10B is connected to a digital computer 5 with a lead 6. The digital computer 5 records the data from the fluid flow sensor 10B and transmits it over a network that includes a wireless segment 105 to a server 7. A computer connected to the server 7 reads the data and alarms users 8 when the urine flow rate falls below a given minimum. Sterilization can be done by pouring sterilization fluid directly into collecting hat 51.
[0210] Alternative embodiments of urine collection devices, which are not shown in the drawing, include urinals, rigid collection hats, and bedside commodes.
[0211] FIGS. 6A-6F show a preferred embodiment of a urine collection unit 60 that includes a sheet 61 made of flexible and thin plastic that is to be used with a toilet 125. The urine is collected into container that can be made of plastic with adequate physical properties (pliable, biocompatible material): for example, polypropylene, latex, silicone or other. Several possible models of these devices presented in FIGS. 6A-6F.
[0212] In an embodiment shown in FIGS. 6A-6B, 6D the urine collection device 60 is composed of two parts. The top unit serves as an attachment to the bowl and can be permanently attached to the toilet top rim 121 (FIG. 6A) or internal side rim 124 (FIG. 6B) of the ceramic bowl with adhesive. The top unit contains magnetic disks 63 that can be affixed with adhesives or be placed in pockets. The magnetic disks 63 are attached permanently. The lower, disposable collecting unit contains iron disks 62 that can be attached to the magnetic disks 63 of upper part. Six magnetic disks 63 and four iron disks 62 is the minimal number that is needed for proper function of the collection unit. The device allows adjustment of the collection area of the bowl to be full position as shown in FIG. 6D, which allows urine collection while standing, or part position as shown in FIG. 6F, which allows urination while sitting and separation of feces from urine by appropriate positioning of the iron disks 62. As shown in FIGS. 6D-6E, plastic ears 64 help to achieve better grip when changing position of the lower part of the unit. Alternatively, the urine collection container 60 can be a one-unit device directly attached to the ceramic bowl with magnet/magnet or iron/magnet interaction.
[0213] FIGS. 8A-8B show an embodiment of a urine collection device having specially configured toiled seat 122 with integrated moving tray 80. The integrated moving tray 80 can slide horizontally, forward and backward, in a slot 125. A urine collection bag made of metal or plastic with magnets/magnets, magnets/iron, or adhesive is attached to the integrated moving tray 80. An outlet 85 of the urine collection bag 82 is connected to an input cannula 100 that carries urine to the output fluid flow sensor 10B and further into collection bowl. The ears 86 help to move the integrated moving tray 80 forward and backward. FIG. 8A shows the integrated moving tray 80 in half inserted position.
[0214] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 6-8, the sheet 61 is preferably reusable or disposable. As shown in FIGS. 6D, 6E, 7B, 7D, 8A, and 8B, the output flow sensor 10B is attached to the toilet bowl 126, above water level, and to the input cannula 100, which is connected to the outlet 85 of the urine collection unit 60. The urine, after passing through the output fluid flow sensor 10B, is led by the output cannula 101 to the toilet bowl 126.
[0215] Again referring to FIG. 9 shows a preferred embodiment of a wireless flowmeter device 120 that is used as a wireless transcutaneous capnography probe. In this embodiment, a mass flowmeter 10 is made to function in wireless portable fashion. As shown in FIG. 15, the mass flowmeters 10C and 10D are connected to a digital computer 5 with detachable leads 6C and 6D, respectively.
[0216] The data from the mass flowmeters 10C and 10D are encrypted and sent by the digital computer 5 to a server 7 where it is stored, analyzed, and again sent in the encrypted fashion to end users 6. The wireless flowmeter device 120, which is embodied as a wireless transcutaneous capnography probe, measures real-time carbon-dioxide levels, oxygen levels, and heart rate. If the values fall outside of desired range, a computer connected to the server sends a warning signal to end users 8, remotely, if the computer calculates that the value(s) are outside a specified range.
[0217] FIG. 10 shows a preferred embodiment of a wireless oxygen flowmeter 70. An oxygen delivery device (ODD) 79, for example a patient mask or patient nasal cannula, delivers oxygen to the patient 1. The input mass flowmeter 10C is inserted into a gas flow line 72 connected to an oxygen source 71. A lead 6C connects the input mass flowmeter 10C to the digital computer 5 and carries the flow rate data from the input mass flowmeter 10C to the digital computer 5. The digital computer 5 encrypts the data from the input mass flowmeter 10C and sends the encrypted data to a server 7 at least in part over a wireless connection 105 and the Internet 109, which is connected by a gateway to the wireless connection 105. The server 7 stores the data for recall and analysis by users 8 and an attached computer 114. The server 7 encrypts the data stored therein while the data is at rest. The computer 114 is programmed to calculate real time oxygen usage by integrating the flow rate over the time observed. If the computer 114 calculates that the oxygen volume and/or oxygen flow rate fall outside a desired range, the computer sends an alarm over a network to the users (e.g. a healthcare provider) 8, who may be remote from the patient 1.
[0218] FIG. 16 shows a preferred embodiment of a system for supplying oxygen based on analysis of a closed loop. In the embodiment shown, a concentrator is a primary oxygen source 71A and an oxygen tank is a secondary (backup) oxygen source 71B. A regulator 78 controls the flow rate of oxygen from the secondary oxygen source 71B. Each oxygen source 71A and 71B have a respective mass flowmeter 10CA and 10CB. Each mass flowmeter 10CA and 10CB transmits its own signal based on the oxygen flow rate measured by the particular mass flowmeter 10CA or 10CB to the digital computer 5. In addition, a transcutaneous blood oxygen sensor 115 sends a signal to the digital computer 5 that is a function of the blood oxygen level of the patient 1. The digital computer 5 transmits a signal describing the data from each of the mass flowmeters 10CA and 10CB across a wireless network segment 105 via the Internet 109 to a server 7, where the data is stored. A computer 114 reads the data from the server 7 and sends a signal to the digital computer 5 to increase or decrease the oxygen flow through the regulator 78 in order to adjust the blood oxygen level of the patient 1 to a set point or set range. The computer 114 further analyzes the data of the patient 1 to generate oxygen usage patterns.
[0219] In an embodiment like that shown in FIG. 16, instead of having a secondary oxygen source 71B, a flow rate of a gas source other than oxygen, for example, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, helium, etc. can be measured.
[0220] Wireless Flowmeter Device Equipped Coupled with Spectrophotometer, PH Meter, and Conductometer
[0221] FIG. 11 shows a wireless multi analytical device 160 for analyzing urine and other body fluids, used in medicine. A urine collection device (UCD) 3 collects urine from the patient 1. A wireless output flowmeter 10B receives urine from the UCD 3 and measures a flow rate of the urine through the wireless output flowmeter 10B. A conductometer 130 receives urine from the wireless output flowmeter 10B and measures a conductance of the urine. The conductometer 130 has an output and generates a signal that is a function of the conductance. The conductometer 130 passes the signal to the output of the conductometer 130. A pH meter 140 receives urine from the conductometer 130 and measures a pH of the urine. The pH meter 140 has an output and generates a signal that is a function of the pH being measured. The pH meter 140 passes the signal to the output of the pH meter. A spectrophotometer 150 receives urine from the pH meter 140. The spectrophotometer 150 measures absorbance and/or fluorescence of the urine. The spectrophotometer 150 generates a signal that is a function of the absorbance. The spectrophotometer 150 has an output. The spectrophotometer 150 passes its signal to the output. A fluid line 9 interconnects the UCD 3 and the OFFS 10B, the OFFS 10B and the conductometer 130, the conductometer 130 and the pH meter 140, and the pH meter 140 and the spectrophotometer 150. The body fluid (e.g. urine or any other) runs through the fluid line 9. The spectrophotometer conduit 9A is made of an inert material that does not absorb light in the target wavelength; preferred materials include glass, polyvinyl, and silicone. The spectrophotometer 159 measures light intensity over wavelength (spectrophotometry, fluorometry). The pH probe 130 and the conductance probe 140 are in direct contact with the body fluid and are inserted in line. The spectrophotometer 150 is an outside sensor consisting of two parts: a light source 151 and a photosensor 152. The light source 151 emits light (broad spectrum for spectroscopy, or defined excitation length for fluoroscopy) that passes through the body fluid and the photosensor 152 generates a signal that is a function of the intensity of the light after passing through the body fluid. In a preferred embodiment, the light source 151 and the photosensor 152 are clipped on opposing sides of the fluid line 9. Preferred embodiment of the photosensor 152 are sold under the trademarks NSP32M by NANOA and MINI-SPECTROMETER MICRO SERIES by HAMAMATSU. The light source 151 is preferably a broad spectrum emitter, for example tungsten or xenon, or laser. In an alternate embodiment in which the light source 151 emits white light, the photosensor 152 measures absorbance across the entire spectrum. Each of the outputs of the OFFS 10B, Conductometer 130, pH meter 140, and spectrophotometer 150 has respective leads 6 that connects it to the digital computer 5. The digital computer 5 relates the signals to each other at given times. The digital computer 5 provides power to OFFS 10B, Conductometer 130, pH meter 140, and spectrophotometer 150 via each respective lead 6. The digital computer 5 encrypts and transmits the encrypted signals at least in part via a wireless connection 105 to a server 7. The OFFS 10B, Conductometer 130, pH meter 140, and spectrophotometer 150 can have any ordered in series along the fluid line 9. In a preferred embodiment, flow through the fluid line 9 is bidirectional. A computer 114 is connected to the server 7. The computer generates an alarm based on data from at least one of the sensors (i.e. the OFFS 10B, the conductometer 130, the pH meter 140, and the spectrophotometer 150). In an alternative embodiment, the computer 114 generates an alarm based on data from more than one of the sensors. The computer 114 transmits the alarm to a user 8.
[0222] A preferred method of using the wireless multi analytical device 160 shown in FIG. 11 is to measure glomerular filtration rate (GFR). A first step of the method involves injecting a renally secreted, not absorbed, inert dye into a patient's bloodstream. As the patient's kidneys work, the dye will be secreted into urine of the patient 1. The output fluid flowmeter 10B measures the flow rate of urine from the patient 1. The light source 151 of the spectrophotometer 150 is set to a wavelength absorbed by the dye. The photosensor 152 measures the absorbance of the urine. From the flow rate data and the absorbance, the computer 114 calculates the glomerular filtration rate of the patient 1. The computer 114 generates an alarm when the glomerular filtration rate falls below a threshold. The computer 114 transmits the alarm to the user 8.
[0223] FIG. 12 shows a preferred embodiment of an open loop respiratory device 71 for monitoring respiration of a patient 1. An oxygen source (O.sub.2) 71 supplies oxygen for a patient 1. A regulator 78 for adjusting a flow rate of the oxygen connects to the oxygen source 71. The regulator 78 includes a valve 79 that opens or closes to increase or decrease the flow rate of oxygen through the regulator 78. The regulator 78 has an input for receiving signals. When the regulator receives an open signal, the regulator 78 opens the valve 79 An input mass flowmeter 10C for measuring a flow rate of the oxygen connects to the regulator 78. An oxygen delivery device (ODD) 79 connects to the input mass flowmeter 10C. Two preferred embodiments of the oxygen delivery device are a mask and a nasal cannula. The input mass flowmeter 10C transmits a signal that is a function of the flow rate to the digital computer 5 via the lead 6C. An oxygen saturation sensor 87 for measuring a percentage of oxygen saturated hemoglobin in blood of the patient 1 is disposed on the patient 1. The oxygen saturation sensor 87 generates a signal that is a function of the percentage of oxygen saturated hemoglobin and transmits the signal to the digital computer 5 via a lead 6. A carbon dioxide sensor 84 for measuring a concentration of carbon dioxide in the blood of the patient is disposed on the patient 1. The carbon dioxide sensor 84 generates a signal that is a function of the carbon dioxide concentration and transmits the signal to the digital computer 5 via a lead 6. A respiratory rate sensor 83 for measuring frequency of breathing of the patient 1 is disposed on the patient 1. The respiratory rate sensor 83 generates a signal that is a function of the respiratory rate and transmits the signal to the digital computer 5 via a lead 6. In additional embodiments, which are not shown, then open loop respiratory device includes additional sensor for measuring respiratory-related properties of the patient including a heart rate sensor, a blood pressure sensor, a central venous pressure sensor, and a temperature probe, all of which transmit signals describing the measured property to the digital computer 5. The digital computer 5 uses a wireless connection 105 and the Internet 109 to transmit data to a server 7. The server 7 stores the data describing the respiratory data along with time data that is used to relate the different signals to each other. A computer 114 analyzes the data from at least one of the input mass flowmeter 10C, the oxygen saturation sensor 87, the carbon dioxide sensor 84 and the respiratory rate sensor 83. When the computer detects that the data outside of a set range, the computer 114 generates a signal to change the oxygen flow rate to the patient 1. The computer 114 transmits the signal to the digital computer 5, which relays the signal to the input 77 of the regulator 78. The regulator then increases or decreases the flow rates based on the type of signal received by the input 77. The valve 79 does not necessarily completely open and completely close based on the signal received by the input 77; rather the valve may only partially open or partially close to increase or reduce the oxygen flow reaching the patient 1.
[0224] FIGS. 13 and 14 show a wireless noninvasive combined central venous pressure meter and arterial pressure meter 162. The wireless noninvasive combined central venous pressure and arterial pressure meter 162 measures accurately, in real time, central venous pressure and arterial pressure. The meter 162 includes two pairs of central blood vessel sensors 190: the right superior vena cava sensor 190A, the right carotid artery sensor 190B, the right femoral vein sensor 190C, and the right femoral artery sensor 190D. As shown in FIG. 14, each central blood vessel sensor 190 includes an ultrasound probe 191. The ultrasound probe 191 measures changes of geometry of a central artery (e.g. right carotid artery 170 and right femoral artery 172) and a central vein (e.g. right superior vena cava 171 and right femoral vein 173) caused by applying external pressure. A bladder 192 fills with air to apply pressure against the underlying blood vessel. The ultrasound probe 191 generates a signal that is a function of the change in geometry. The ultrasound probe 191 transmits its signal to a digital computer 5 via a lead 6. A stretchable strap 193, which is secured with adhesive, holds the ultrasound probe 191 and bladder 192 in place. The ultrasound probe 191 is centered on vessels (170 and 171; or 172 and 173) by an operator. The operator will see anatomy displayed on a monitor, which is not shown. The operator can be assisted remotely by experienced technician if needed. Once the vessels are visualized and identified, the ultrasound probe 191 is fixed into position and ready to use.
[0225] The meter 162 measures central pressures as follows. Air from an air pump 180 inflates the bladder 192. The inflation of the bladder 192 presses the ultrasound probe 191 down externally (against the skin) with defined pressures. The air pump 180 the bladder 192 to a preselected value. As shown in FIG. 14, a pressure meter 182 measures the pressure in the bladder 192. The pressure meter transmits a signal that is a function of the measured air pressure to the digital computer via a lead 6. The ultrasound probe 191 measures the deformation (cross section) and wall motion of the vessels during a complete heartbeat. The digital computer calculates the central arterial pressure and venous pressure from the deformation data from the ultrasound probe 191 using prior-art algorithms.
[0226] Wireless Oxygen Flow Sensor and Devices Equipped with Wireless Oxygen Flow Sensor.
[0227] FIG. 10 shows a preferred embodiment of a wireless, wearable, real time oxygen flowmeter, which is also referred to as an oxygen flow sensor, was created to address and solve significant problems associated with oxygen therapies. The oxygen gas is flowing via gas flow line 72 and runs through input mass flowmeter 10C continuing to the oxygen delivery device (ODD) 79. Therefore, functionally it can be considered in sensor. The oxygen flow data is collected from any oxygen or gas delivery line equipped with an input mas flowmeter 10C with lead 6C and transmitted to the digital computer 5. Digital computer 5 is a cell phone size wearable unit capable of collecting and transmitting data further as well as powering the input mas flowmeter 10C. The signal is sent wirelessly (at least in part) to the server 7 where the signal is stored, analyzed, and analyzed by performing additional operations. The input mass flowmeter 10C is capable of measuring flow rate of other compatible gases as nitrogen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, helium etc. The input mas flowmeter 10C is reusable and able to withstand medical sterilization.
[0228] The wireless gas input flow sensor can be coupled with an output mass flowmeter 10D to create an input/output system, out, away from the patient 1 is shown. As shown in FIG. 12, preferred sensors include an oxygen saturation probe 87, dissolved oxygen concentration, a carbon dioxide sensor 84, and a respiratory rate sensor 83. The sensors 83, 84, and 87 measure values and transmits the data to the digital computer 5, which relays the data to the server 7 in similar fashion as the input mass flowmeter 10C. As shown in FIG. 10, when both an input mass flowmeter 10C and an output mass flowmeter 10D in addition to previous functions, then the computer 114 sets alarms based on a dose/response relationship. For example, what concentration of oxygen is needed to achieve certain oxygen saturation or carbon dioxide levels. Another type of relationship would be oxygen saturation to carbon dioxide depending on oxygen flow rate.
[0229] Spectrometry of Fluids Including Blood
[0230] FIGS. 17A-17C show a preferred embodiment of a spectrophotometric phlebotomy device. The spectrophotometric phlebotomy device includes a winged infusion device 200. The winged infusion set 200 has a hypodermic needle 201 that inserts into a vein of the patient. The hypodermic needle 201 has two wings 202A and 202B for securing the needle 201 in the vein. A flexible small-bore transparent tubing 203 is connected to a proximal end of the hypodermic needle 201.
[0231] A spectrophotometer 150 has two hemi annular cylinders 153 and 154. The first hemi annular cylinder 153 has a light source 151, such as a LED or laser. The second annular cylinder 154 has a photosensor 152. The light source 151 emits light at a wavelength that is absorbed by hemoglobin. The photosensor 152 measures absorbance by the hemoglobin in the flexible small-bore transparent tubing 203. A lead 6D is used to connect the spectrophotometer 150 to a digital computer 5. A preferred embodiment of a mini-spectrometer is sold under the trademark HAMAMATSU C12666MA. A hinge 157 connects the hemi annular cylinders 153 and 154. Pegs 155 snap into the sockets 156.
